Oppo provides a textbook example of how not to launch a mid‑range tablet outside China
Along with the Oppo Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, Oppo also unveiled its new mid-range tablet last year. It is now available in Europe (MSRP starting at around $550) and has already been reviewed by notebookcheck. Had the Oppo Pad 5 been released with the same technical specifications as the Chinese model (starting at $560 for imports), this affordable Android tablet would have been a real hit even in 2026.
However, our review of the Oppo Pad 5 does reveal a few weaknesses, which stem from the fact that the manufacturer is essentially bringing two different tablets to market under the same name. While the Chinese version excels technically, the European version of the Pad 5 clearly shows the effects of cost-cutting measures attributed to the DRAM crisis.
The global and Chinese Oppo Pad 5 models differ not only in their displays, chipsets, and batteries but also in their storage technology, connectivity, and features. Oppo has cut corners across the global Pad 5, including its screen resolution, UFS storage, charging performance, and built-in USB port.
Affordable Android tablet available in Europe only with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300
However, one aspect stands out as particularly problematic in our review: performance. The global model relies solely on the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 and thus falls far short of the top tier of SoCs, unlike the Chinese Pad 5, which features the significantly more powerful Dimensity 9400+. Combined with the high resolution of a 12.1-inch tablet, this results in everyday performance that is anything but outstanding.
Overall, the global Pad 5 competes with budget and mid-range tablets that are available at significantly lower prices. Examples include the Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2 Pro and Lenovo Tab K12. If the Oppo Pad 5 were priced in this range, its bright LCD display would certainly give it an edge over the competition. Especially since the surcharge for the 5G version is fairly moderate.
You can find all the details and test results in our review of the Oppo tablet.
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Oppo Pad 5 review
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